Apple is reportedly developing a new smart home device called the Home Hub, a 7-inch touchscreen designed to control smart home gadgets. The device was initially expected to launch in spring 2026 but has faced delays due to challenges in developing the updated version of Siri, Apple's voice assistant. This new Siri is intended to handle more complex voice commands and manage multiple smart devices at once, using Apple's new AI system called Apple Intelligence. However, technical issues with the assistant have slowed progress on the Home Hub. The Home Hub is expected to function similarly to a small iPad, offering features like widgets, notifications, and live video feeds. It would run on a specialized operating system called homeOS, and be mounted on a motorized base that can rotate 360 degrees to follow the user’s movements. This feature would use onboard sensors and Apple Intelligence to track where the user is looking and adjust the screen accordingly. The device is also expected to support Matter, an open standard that allows smart devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. Apple has not officially confirmed the existence, price, or release date of the Home Hub. The delay has given competitors like Google’s Nest Hub and Amazon’s Echo Show more time to capture market share. While Apple has been working on connected home products for the past two years, it still lags behind companies like Amazon and Google in this space. The success of the Home Hub will likely depend on how well the new Siri performs, as it is central to the device's ability to interact with and control smart home ecosystems.